Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship- Citizen of the United States (U.S.). Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g, of this part. See 38 U.S.C. § 7407(a) for more information.
English Language Proficiency - RTs/RRTs appointed to direct patient-care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f).
Education Individuals must have successfully completed a respiratory care program accredited by the CoARC or its successor.
AND
Licensure Persons appointed or reassigned to RRT positions in the GS-0601 series must possess and maintain for the duration of employment a full, current and unrestricted license from a state to practice as an RRT.
AND
Credential Persons appointed or reassigned to RRT positions in the GS-0601 series must possess and maintain for the duration of employment a valid, current, unrestricted credential of RRT.
Grade Determinations:GS-12
Experience- Must have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level demonstrating the clinical competencies described at that level.
- GS 11 Assignments. This assignment is the full performance level. RRTs at this grade level work independently providing respiratory care in both inpatient and/or outpatient settings. The specific assignments are dependent on facility structure and complexity levels. They use data and patient assessment to establish appropriate plan of care and determine if outcomes are being met. They consult with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality of patient care within area of specialty. They manage and maintain the airway and ventilation of the patient using appropriate mechanical means. RRTs determine and implement complex respiratory care such as protocols, respiratory modalities, bronchoscopy, medications or supplemental oxygen and intubation. They monitor critical systems. They use advanced modes of ventilation and outpatient services, such as home ventilators and COPD case management. RRTs suggest alternate modes of treatment where indicated based on assessment and analysis of patient response to treatment. RRTs at this grade level may perform invasive procedures such as arterial line placement. They serve as a preceptor to lower graded staff. They may lead projects developing new 9 policies, procedures or protocols.
AND
Hold an active license and RRT credential.
AND
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities- In addition to the requirements above, candidates must demonstrate all the following KSAs:
- Knowledge of complex pulmonary function testing and stress/exercise testing.
- Ability to maintain a quality control program related to pulmonary function testing.
- Ability to treat acute complications for all pulmonary function testing.
- Skill in performing polysomnographic studies to include obtaining both physiologic and diagnostic data.
- Skill in calibrating and troubleshooting polysomnographic equipment and physiologic and diagnostic monitoring.
Preferred Experience: More than 2 years experience in the field. Recently worked in the ICU with a good knowledge of critical care. Can place arterial lines, intubate, independent with ventilators, and understands outpatient clinics. Has experience in writing policies, procedures, and competencies. 2 years of experience of managing work assignments.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit
https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
Physical Requirements: VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service for requirements.
Work is primarily performed out-patient care areas, but can be both inpatient and outpatient. Extensive interaction with patients, staff, physicians, family members, and visitors is involved. It may involve walking, standing, and bending, reaching and stretching to set-up and taking apart equipment, lifting
and positioning patient and carrying, pushing or pulling moderate heavy objects (15-44 lbs.).